Mia Bayer, Director, Youth Programs and Foundation Manager
Reflecting on the opportunities the ASA and AJSA provide, I always find myself focused on the possibilities available to our junior members.
While many staff members update the membership on research projects or new DNA requirements, as Director of Youth Programs, my thoughts often turn to the exciting opportunities for our youth — especially those that impact their involvement directly. One such opportunity is the Merit Scholarship Program, which is open to all junior members, whether they excel in the show ring, enjoy hands-on ranch work, or are passionate about research and genetics within the breed.
The Merit Award Program is a longstanding tradition of recognizing outstanding youth in the American Junior Simmental Association. Supported by the American Simmental-Simbrah Foundation, the program awards Bronze, Silver, and Gold Merit Awards annually to members who meet specific criteria. Each award level builds upon the previous one, meaning a junior must first receive a Bronze Award to qualify for the Silver, and only after earning the Silver can they apply for the prestigious Gold Merit Award.
2024 Gold Merit Award Recipients (L–R), with Foundation Board Members Mark Smith and Tonya Phillips: Walker Housley, TN; Hannah Buse, MS; Emerson Tarr, IL; Drew Pederson, SD; Matthew Koverman, OH.
2024 Silver Merit Award Recipients (L–R): Cecillia Newby, KS; Allison Coats, MO; Carter Hall, WV; Cole Glick, IL; Kenidey Effling, SD; Aribella Beins, UT; Chase Harker, IN; Bryce Hatfield, KS; Conley Schick, IL; Claire Dorsey, IL; Riley Martin, KY. Not pictured: Dillon Mai, ID.
It all begins with the Bronze application. Completing the Bronze application is the first step in the process, and it requires submitting two letters of recommendation. Bronze applications can be submitted either through a state association or directly to the AJSA for those without an active state association. Bronze awardees are recognized with a certificate and a bronze lapel pin, presented at the National Classic. Although there is no monetary award for the Bronze level, this recognition can only be awarded once per individual, with an unlimited number of recipients each year.
Next, the Silver Merit Award recognizes 12 outstanding applicants annually, each receiving a $2,500 scholarship. Applicants for the Silver Award must be previous Bronze Award winners and are selected by an ASA-appointed committee. The Silver Awards are presented at the National Classic, and applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. As competition for these scholarships is fierce, applicants are encouraged to reapply in subsequent years if they are not selected initially.
The highest level of the Merit Award Program is the Gold Award. Only those who have earned both the Bronze and Silver awards can apply. Five scholarships of $5,000 are awarded to AJSA members who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and involvement in both the AJSA and their communities. Gold Award recipients are true leaders in the industry, with active participation in events like the SPC Contest, IGS Summit, and National Classic, in addition to contributing to their schools and communities. Competition for the Gold Award is intense, and receiving this one-time scholarship is a true honor.
The most rewarding part of overseeing this program is witnessing the recognition of so many passionate young members who care deeply about the breed. It’s inspiring to see their dedication and hard work rewarded, whether they’re taking the first step with a Bronze Award or reaching the pinnacle with a Gold Award. Watching them grow through the program is truly one of the highlights of my role.
The American Simmental-Simbrah Foundation proudly supports the Merit Award Program and works year-round to raise funds to sustain these scholarships. A major fundraising event is the sale of the Foundation Female, through which over $700,000 has been raised to support these efforts. Generous donors contribute by either donating the female or supporting its purchase. The Foundation’s goal is to continue recognizing and awarding scholarships to exceptional youth involved in the Simmental breed.
Visit the AJSA website at juniorsimmental.org and click on the Scholarships tab for more information about the Merit Award Program and the application process. If you have any questions or are interested in donating or learning more about the Foundation Female, please contact me, Mia Bayer, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
